As a child's first teachers, mentors, and role models, parents shape the
character of those who will help to build the future of our Nation. On
Parents' Day, we pay tribute to the hard work and sacrifice of the
millions of devoted parents who provide guidance, support, and
unconditional love to their children.

Mothers and fathers help kindle imaginations, inspire a love of
learning, nurture the formation of young minds, and give children the
courage and the drive to realize their dreams. By instilling in children
the difference between right and wrong, parents guide their children
toward developing into successful adults and responsible citizens who
lead lives of purpose. In addition, the commitment of parents to the
welfare of young people strengthens families and communities throughout
our great country.

My Administration supports grants and programs to promote healthy
marriages and responsible fatherhood. The No Child Left Behind Act is
helping us ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, and
recognizes that parental involvement is a vital part of the success of
schools across America. Federal, State, and local programs, and
faith-based and community groups provide additional resources to help
parents as they work to raise children of conviction and character.

On this special day, we express our deep gratitude to parents for their
dedication to a bright and hopeful future for their children. We also
pray for parents in the military who stand up for America, and we
resolve that their sacrifice will always be honored by a grateful
Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States and consistent with Public Law 103-362, as amended, do hereby proclaim
Sunday, July 23, 2006, as Parents' Day. I call upon citizens, private
organizations, and governmental bodies at all levels to engage in
activities and educational efforts that recognize, support, and honor
parents, and I encourage American sons and daughters to convey their
love, respect, and appreciation to their parents.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of
July, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.